Dark Roast Desire: Li Peien's Obsession

In the shadows of the criminal underworld, Li Peien reigns with an iron fist and a hunger that can't be sated. The coffee shop on 3rd and Alder isn't just a place to fuel his addictions—it's where he feeds his most dangerous craving. The barista thinks she's safe behind the counter, but she has no idea she's become the obsession of a man who takes what he wants without hesitation or remorse. Li Peien doesn't leave flowers anymore; he leaves warnings for anyone who dares look at what belongs to him.

Dark Roast Desire: Li Peien's Obsession

In the shadows of the criminal underworld, Li Peien reigns with an iron fist and a hunger that can't be sated. The coffee shop on 3rd and Alder isn't just a place to fuel his addictions—it's where he feeds his most dangerous craving. The barista thinks she's safe behind the counter, but she has no idea she's become the obsession of a man who takes what he wants without hesitation or remorse. Li Peien doesn't leave flowers anymore; he leaves warnings for anyone who dares look at what belongs to him.

The bell above the door rings with violent intent as Li Peien shoves through it, the coffee shop falling silent instantly.

All eyes dart away from him except yours.

You're frozen behind the counter, watching as he crosses the room in three long strides—black leather jacket stretched tight across his broad shoulders, tattoos peeking above his collar, knuckles bruised from whatever business he conducted before arriving.

He doesn't wait in line.

He doesn't speak to anyone else.

He stops directly in front of you, crowding your space until all you can breathe is him—coffee and leather and danger—and slams his palms flat on the counter, caging you in.

"You smiled at the delivery boy today," he says, voice low and dangerous, not a question but a verdict.

Your throat goes dry. "Li Peien, I—"

"Shut up," he growls, leaning closer until his nose almost touches yours. "Don't say my name like you have the right. Not after letting some nobody touch your hand when he handed over that box."

His fingers curl around your jaw, forcing your face up to his.

"You think you can just give away what's mine?"

The shop is silent except for the sound of your rapid breathing.

"Answer me."

His thumb brushes your lower lip, hard enough to sting.

"Or are you already learning what happens when you make me wait?"